The political face of folklore - a call for debate

Article Abstract:

The need for folklorists to assess the influence of politics on the study of folklores was highlighted in the two events involving the presentations of Turkish folklore. The efforts of the Turkish government to include political agenda in the teachings of folklores have resulted in the changing of the country's traditional oral folklore. The public's harsh reactions to presentations about the Turkish traditional trickster figure of Nasreddin Hodja during the Fifth International Turkish Folklore Congress exemplify the contrast in the public's and the scholars' views about oral folklores.

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More about politics and folklore in Turkey

Article Abstract:

Ultranationalists and politicians significantly influence the teaching of traditional oral folklore in Turkey. The introduction of a multiparty political system in the country has resulted in the removal of the multiethnic, racial and religious influences on oral folklore. The incident during a Turkish folklore conference where the audience reacted harshly to a bawdy narrative about the epic figure Nasreddin Hoca signifies the strong influence of politics on folklore studies. Also, books on folklore that are supported by the government present views favored by the culture ministry.

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Politics alive in Turkish folklore

Article Abstract:

This article discusses the political aspects of Turkish folklore, and the need for scholars to understand the current political climate of the countries they study. Topics include a criticism of the work of JoAnn Conrad and Professor Ilhan Basgoz, the work of Warren S. and Barbara K. Walker, and the scholarly necessity for political neutrality of folklorists.

Turkey, Social aspects, Storytelling

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